The Civic Partnership
The University of Chicago is shaped and inspired by the City of Chicago. Our growing partnership with our neighbors has the potential to enhance the quality of life and economic development of the South Side and the global reach of this vibrant city.
The University has devoted the research and creative thinking of some of the nation’s top scholars, as well as millions of dollars in investment in recent years, to support local schools, jobs, health care, arts, housing, and public safety.
Improving Education and Health Care
Our Urban Education Institute combines a nationally known research center, teacher training, a close relationship with the Chicago Public Schools and the hands-on operation of four charter school campuses to create a new model for urban school reform.
The Urban Health Initiative, a partnership between the University of Chicago Medical Center and medical providers throughout the South Side, is pioneering a system in which patients get the right care at the right time in the right place.
Get Involved
Whether you’re a member of the University community or a Hyde Park neighbor, we invite you to explore these pages to learn about an array of civic initiatives and opportunities for you to make a difference. Browse our database of community-service organizations on campus to learn more, visit our Volunteer Marketplace to post—or find—a volunteer opportunity, and connect with student volunteers through the University Community Service Center. We also invite you to explore our many academic and cultural events that are open to the community or browse our images on Flickr to see how we’re making a difference in the community.
- Explore Flickr to learn more about the Office for Civic Engagement.
- Visit Community Volunteers to learn more about how to give back.
- Watch a Community Summit video to see how the University of Chicago is engaging with our community.